Through the Eyes of a Child

March 23, 2013 to April 14, 2013

Bailey Campbell and Camille Cunningham Barrett age 10 , Robo Maid

Each fall and winter hundreds of children and teens enjoy the challenge and delight of creating art through the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s WAG Studio programs. And each spring the Gallery mounts an exhibition of their work—several hundred talented young artists are represented in either solo or group works in a wide range of media. Ranging in ages from 5 to 17, the young artists come from all across the city and reflect a wide array of cultural backgrounds and traditions. Some come to public programs, others to programs sponsored by local school divisions. Some are awarded scholarships funded by the Volunteer Associates of the Winnipeg Art Gallery and other generous donors who want to ensure that children interested in art have the opportunity to study at the Gallery.

In this our Centennial year, it is fitting to reflect on our history and the impact we have made on our community. WAG art classes were first offered in 1913, the year after the Gallery was founded. Thousands of students have studied at the Gallery over the past century and they reflect a broad range of cultural backgrounds and traditions.

Our annual celebration of children’s artwork features myriad pieces of work involving clay, paint, pastels, recycled materials, and more. Through the Eyes of a Child offers a glimpse of the variety of projects they work on. Only a small portion of what is produced can be accommodated, but the magical effect of a large space animated by the energetic markings of youthful creativity can’t help but immerse you in a sense of wonder, and bring a smile to your face. It certainly did for these visitors.

“The kids just let their imaginations run riot in class and the result is an exhibition that brings a smile to our visitors’ faces,” says Michael Boss, Head of WAG Studio. “Staff, instructors, members of the arts community, and, of course, proud parents, are invariably delighted by the outpouring of energy, skill, and imagination that characterizes this exhibition. For many of the young artists this will be the first time their work has ever been presented in a public forum. This adds to the excitement generated by the explosion of creativity that takes place in our studios.”

“The pleasure of being at the WAG was tripled when I walked into the children’s exhibit, it was very refreshing and fun!”

“Congratulations on the wonderful creative bonanza! It was so well choreographed it was like a dance. What a wonderful compliment to our young artists.”

“Another unforgettable experience!”

“For a reminder of what art is really all about – the joy of creating something beautiful simply for its own sake – Through the Eyes of a Child is a must see.”

“This isn’t just a show for kids…Although children will certainly find it enjoyable, the charming lack of pretense in the works will appeal to even the most cynical of armchair art critics.”